Evaluating bronchoalveolar lavage and sequencing for diagnosing pneumonia from immune checkpoint inhibitors

Prospective Study on the Efficacy and Safety of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Combined With Pathogen Metagenomic Sequencing Technology in the Diagnosis of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Associated Pneumonia

Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University · NCT06192303

This study is testing if a special lung procedure and advanced testing can help doctors accurately diagnose pneumonia caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients who aren't getting better with regular treatments.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment104 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorNanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University (other)
Locations1 site (Guangzhou, Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT06192303 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness and safety of using bronchoalveolar lavage combined with pathogen metagenomic sequencing to diagnose immune checkpoint inhibitor associated pneumonia (CIP). Given the challenges in distinguishing CIP from other pulmonary conditions, this observational study aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce misdiagnosis. Participants will undergo bronchoalveolar lavage, and the samples will be analyzed using advanced sequencing technology to identify pathogens. The study focuses on patients who show pneumonia symptoms but have not responded to standard anti-infection treatments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are immunosuppressed individuals aged 18 to 75 who exhibit pneumonia symptoms and have not responded to empirical anti-infection treatment.

Not a fit: Patients without symptoms of pneumonia or those who do not meet the age and immunosuppression criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment outcomes for patients suffering from CIP.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited large-scale prospective research on this specific approach, the use of bronchoalveolar lavage and metagenomic sequencing has shown promise in other diagnostic contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Voluntarily sign an informed consent form;
2. Age range from 18 to 75 years old, regardless of gender;
3. Immunosuppressive host;
4. Symptoms, signs, or imaging signs of pneumonia are visible, and empirical anti infection treatment is ineffective.

Exclusion Criteria:

Where this trial is running

Guangzhou, Guangdong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Associated Pneumonia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.